Muzaffarabad: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore has alleged that a march towards Muzaffarabad during the election period was part of a planned conspiracy aimed at creating widespread unrest and destabilising the region.
In an official statement, Prime Minister Rathore said that the individuals involved had allegedly prepared their plan several weeks in advance. According to him, the purpose of organising the march during the elections was to create chaos, disrupt the democratic process, and provoke large-scale law and order problems.
He further claimed that the groups involved were heavily armed and had access to strategically important locations. Rathore alleged that these positions were being used to launch attacks on security personnel. He urged the public to stay away from what he described as “mischief-makers,” warning that they allegedly use civilians as human shields during confrontations with law enforcement agencies.
The Prime Minister appealed to residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with the authorities to help maintain peace and stability. He stressed that the government would continue taking necessary measures to ensure public safety and protect democratic institutions from any attempts to undermine them.
Meanwhile, the Azad Kashmir Police reported that two police officers were injured after armed individuals associated with the proscribed Awami Action Committee allegedly opened fire during the unrest.
According to police officials, the injured officers were immediately shifted for medical treatment. Authorities said security forces responded to the attack and launched efforts to restore order in the affected areas.
Separately, local sources reported that clashes occurred during a march organised by the banned Joint Awami Action Committee towards Rawalakot. Initial reports indicated that the confrontation resulted in multiple casualties and several injuries. However, officials had not released confirmed casualty figures at the time of reporting.
The incidents took place amid the ongoing electoral process in Azad Kashmir, a period during which security had already been heightened to ensure peaceful voting and the safety of citizens.
Law enforcement agencies have increased patrols and security deployments across sensitive areas following the violence. Officials said investigations were underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the clashes and identify those responsible for the attacks.
The government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring that the electoral process proceeds without disruption. Authorities have also appealed to political groups and citizens to exercise restraint, avoid participating in unlawful gatherings, and resolve disagreements through peaceful and legal means.
The allegations made by Prime Minister Rathore regarding a pre-planned conspiracy have not been independently verified. No response from representatives of the groups named in the statement was immediately available.
Observers note that political tensions in Azad Kashmir often rise during election periods, making security arrangements particularly important. The latest incidents have further heightened concerns about public safety and the need for dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Officials have assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to restore normalcy and investigate the violence. Security agencies remain on alert as the situation continues to develop, while authorities have urged citizens to rely on official information and avoid spreading unverified reports that could fuel panic or misinformation.
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